The Buckeye, July August 2017

JULY/AUGUST 2017

INSIDE:

Vol. 28, Issue 4 Horticulture Student Survey

The Official Publication of the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association

HORTICULTURE STUDENT SURVEY RETAIL ROUNDTABLE TALKS CUSTOMER SERVICE HOW TO FIND A MENTOR

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July/August 2017 Vol. 28, Issue 4

The Buckeye is published six times per year by The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 72 Dorchester Square, Westerville, OH 43081 614.899.1195 | www.onla.org EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING ISSN 1536-7940 Subscriptions: $75/year alana@onla.org OFFICERS Josh Posey, President Buckeye Resources, Inc. Steve Maddox, Jr., Immediate Past President Bower & Branch Andy Doesburg, President-Elect Thornton Landscape DIRECTORS James Beardslee Beardslee Nursery Lenny Garrard Bobcat Enterprises Columbus Tom Hilgeman Bower & Branch Ryan Kolb Ryan Kolb Co. LLC Mindy Moore Cardinal Landscape, Tree Service & Lawn Care Steve O’Neal Columbus State Community College Ellen Gallucci Purcell Riepenhoff Landscape Ltd. STAFF Ken Fisher, Executive Director Karen Lykins, Accounting Keith Manbeck, Sales Roni Petersen, Membership & Certification Alana Settle, Marketing & Communications Tracie Zody, MGIX THE FINE PRINT The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, directors or staff and do not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as members of the ONLA does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services.

CORRECTIONS In Healing Gardens (May/June, 2017) the caption for the photo on page 18 should have read "Planting Beds at Rothenberg Preparatory Academy Rooftop Garden".

16

Jim Chatfield shares his trip to China in Why Trees Matter

CONTENTS

2 Executive Director's Message 3 President's Perspective 5 ONLA Golf Outing 7 Branches of Government 15 Diagnostic Walkabout 23 MGIX News and Highlights 25 Ohio High School Landscape Olympics 32 Landscape Awards Program Application 38 In Memoriam

FEATURE STORIES

10 13 20 27 29 37

Business Buzz NGLCO's Summer Field Day Retail Roundtable: Customer Service Landscape Design: Driveways Horticulture Student Survey Plants You Must Have: Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 35 Service Providers • 40 Calendar of Events, Advertising Index • 41 Classifieds

What We Do Together Matters Ken Fisher, ONLA Executive Director

What we do together matters when it comes to protecting our businesses from the harmful effects of regulation and legislation. The Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association and our affiliated state and federal partners are your best line of defense for advocacy. As ONLA members, you can rest assured that you have representation on issues important to nursery and landscape businesses.

Earlier this year, The National Small Business Association (NSBA) released the 2017 Small Business Regulations Survey which shows the massive impact regulations have on America’s small-business community, and underscores the need for us to work together to monitor and fight regulatory burden and complexity.

The study points out that the average small-business owner is spending at least $12,000 every year dealing with regulations, more than half of small businesses have held off on hiring a new employee due to regulatory burdens, and about 40 percent of respondents claim that they have held off making a new investment because of a regulation. Among other conclusions, the survey found that 44 percent of businesses spend at least 40 hours a year dealing with federal regulations, and 29 percent spend at least that much on state and local rules.

These relatively hidden costs have a negative compounding effect on individual businesses and our industry. If left unchecked and unmanaged, they become overwhelming financial and operational

2 The Buckeye

burdens. Your membership allows us to continue to protect our industry and ensure we “have a seat at the table” whenever regulation or legislation is introduced that could negatively impact nursery and landscape businesses in Ohio.

I spent a day last week with our long-time ONLA lobbyist Belinda Jones discussing key state legislative and regulatory issues and stopping in on hearings at the Ohio State House. With so many “well intentioned” state legislators looking after their constituents, it is a full time job to ensure our industry is not negatively impacted—directly or unintentionally—by the flurry of bills that get introduced each session. We are in good hands with Belinda and her team.

When it comes to advocacy, what we do together matters. One of the most important reasons for being an ONLA member is to help us work together to protect our advocacy interests. For those of you interested in getting more involved in the process, we have a Political Action Committee that works directly with the Board, staff, and our legislative counsel to help shape our advocacy priorities and activities. Contact our office to learn how you can get involved.

I appreciate your continued support of ONLA. Your membership and participation in ONLA events will encourage others to join. Help us get the word out: the industry benefits from a growing ONLA membership.

Because “what we do together matters”.

Ken Fisher can be contacted at ken@onla.org

onla.org

President's Perspective Josh Posey, 2017 ONLA President

ONLA is always thinking about how to better serve you, our members, through educational and networking events, advocacy, certification, and member savings programs. Are you taking full advantage of everything your membership has to offer?

owned business. MGIX will host several education sessions, including a panel discussion with the Ricart family on Sunday, that address issues unique to operating family businesses, such as succession planning. I hope you’ll take advantage of this customized offering.

Gather up your team and meet us for some friendly competition at ONLA’s Golf Outing on Friday, September 22.

Proceeds from the Golf Outing benefit the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics, a flagship program of ONLA designed to address workforce development issues.

ONLA understands that attending a conference such as MGIX demands a lot of your time, whether you’re an exhibitor or an attendee. With MGIX falling on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, the ONLA staff is developing several MGIX events that have a family-friendly focus. I hope you’ll consider bringing your family to downtown Columbus to enjoy MGIX and the many attractions that Ohio’s capital city has to offer.

Please support the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics!

Your involvement makes an impact at the right time— when high school juniors and seniors are exploring their career options. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for any interested business to get involved. Sponsorship commitments help make this event an engaging program for 150+ students, and connects your business with your future employees.

Lastly, make sure the 2018 Midwest Green Industry Experience is on your calendar. The conference is beginning to take shape, and it will be an event that you’ll want your whole team to experience.

The Education Committee is reviewing dozens of proposals for education speakers. Rest assured that the Committee will select the best speakers on a wide array of topics. For a second year, ONLA will utilize OSU professors and Extension staff for a portion of the sessions at MGIX.

This spring, ONLA announced an exciting partnership: the Kentucky Nursery and Landscape Association will welcome its members to MGIX 2018. This collaboration aligns with ONLA’s vision for this conference to be a Midwest Green Industry Experience that attracts professionals from Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and beyond. The ONLA staff and board are looking forward to working with KNLA to provide its members unmatched opportunities for education and networking and ultimately grow the success of MGIX. As always, thank you for your continued support of your association. I hope you all continue to have a prosperous year.

Josh Posey can be contacted at josh@buckeyeresources.com

Many of us own or are climbing the ranks of a family-

onla.org

July/August 2017

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Want to Play a More Active Role in Your Association?

JOIN AN ONLA COMMITTEE

ONLA Committee Members volunteer their time and talents to an array of activities and help guide the direction of the association so it may best serve its members' evolving needs. Committee work provides excellent opportunities for professional development and networking.

2017 Committees: Certification • Education • Exhibits Future Professionals Green Industry Growers Landscape Awards • Landscape Contractors Legislative • Membership • Retail

Annual Committee meetings will take place in September.

Contact ONLA at info@onla.org or call 614.899.1195 to learn about which committee is right for you.

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ONLA GOLF OUTING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2017 • BENT TREE GOLF CLUB • SUNBURY, OH Benefits the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics

$100 per player 10 am: Shotgun start 3 pm: Cookout & awards

Registration Deadline: September 1, 2017

Return this form along with payment information to ONLA, 72 Dorchester Sq., Westerville, OH 43081.

Questions? Contact karen@onla.org or call 614.899.1195 REGISTRATION INFORMATION Company: Contact Name: Mailing Address:

City, State, Zip:

Phone:

Email:

GOLFERS Name:

Company:

Name:

Company:

Name:

Company:

Name:

Company:

PAYMENT Number of Golfers x $100.00 each Total Due Card Number: Cardholder Name/Signature:

___ Check (Payable to ONLA) ___ Visa Exp Date:

___ MasterCard

3 Digit Code:

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Proceeds benefit the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics

PRESENTING SPONSOR (1 Available) Welcome golfers & distribute awards during cookout $2,000 HOLE SPONSOR (18 AVAILABLE) Company name on tee sign at hole. $650

CONTEST SPONSOR (3 AVAILABLE) Choose from longest putt, longest drive, or closest to the pin $750

GAME SPONSOR (1 AVAILABLE) Conduct corn-hole game $750

COOKOUT SPONSOR (2 AVAILABLE) Company advertisement on signage during cookout $850

BEVERAGE CART SPONSOR (2 AVAILABLE) Ride in beverage cart with company signage displayed $750

DOOR PRIZE SPONSOR Donate an item of your choice. Door prizes will be announced at the cook out.

RECOGNITION In addition to the above, all event sponsors receive: One golf foursome and meals at event ($400 Value) Logo recognition on: event t-shirt, event signage, ONLA’s website and The Buckeye

SPONSORSHIP DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2017 Contact Karen at karen@onla.org or 614.899.1195 SPONSOR INFORMATION Company: Contact Name: Mailing Address:

City, State, Zip:

Phone:

Email:

I would like to support ONLA with the following sponsorship: I would like to donate the following door prize: Door Prize Estimated Value: PAYMENT

Card Number:

Total Due

Exp Date:

___ Check (Payable to ONLA) ___ Visa

___ MasterCard

3 Digit Code:

Cardholder Name: Cardholder Signature:

Return this form along with payment information to ONLA, 72 Dorchester Sq., Westerville, OH 43081 6 The Buckeye

onla.org

BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT

Ohio Senate Releases Substitute Version of Budget Bill Belinda Jones, Capitol Consulting Group, Inc.

As you know, we have been closely following the movement of and changes to the biennial operating budget, HB 49.

Thanks to some great work by ONLA leadership and our green industry partners, we were able to get the originally proposed landscape design tax removed from the bill.

Additionally, under the great leadership of our friends at the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, the Ohio House added favorable changes to the "current agricultural use valuation" (CAUV) that will modernize this program and provide more stability in the valuation for taxation of agricultural land.

But as the Ohio Senate took over deliberations of HB 49, the numbers from the state's tax receipts were coming in at much lower than expected numbers. This put the Senate in the untenable position of dealing with an even greater deficit than originally thought. What does this mean for the strides we made in the House?

Here is a summary of the Senate's actions/posture to date as of a recent press conference: Fiscal Situation President Obhof discussed the state’s fiscal troubles and the Senate’s approach to savings in the budget. He reaffirmed that the Senate sub bill does not propose any tax increases or utilization of the state rainy day fund. The Senate projected that the shortfall for FY18/19 is just over $1 billion. The House made an estimated $600 million in cuts, though there was disagreement between the House and Senate over a projected savings of $184 million in the healthcare space. The Senate did not score this cut and then proposed an additional $650 million in savings, taking the total to roughly $1.1 billion.

Medicaid Changes and Drug Response In collaboration with the Kasich Administration, the onla.org

Senate identified $200 million in savings within the Medicaid program. The Senate did not make changes to the controversial Medicaid Expansion—Controlling Board language that the House adopted, though President Obhof indicated that this will be addressed in the Omnibus amendment to be adopted next week. The Senate did reduce hospital funding by $75 million.

The Senate kept the $170 million in House-passed funding for drug addiction and added an additional $6 million.

The Senate shifted much of the $170 million from GRF to non-GRF sources. Some highlights of this new funding include—$60 million for child protective services, $2 million for county coroners, $20 million for expansion of drug addiction treatment and recovery housing, $6 million for expansion of detox facilities, $1 million to treat drug addicted infants, $5 million for county drug abuse response teams, funding for teacher training, and funding for OARRS upgrades. Additionally, the Senate sub bill includes a policy change to allow county jails to get reimbursed for the cost of mental health drugs.

General Government and Tax Policy There was a 3% across the board cut for executive agencies that resulted in $100 million in savings. There were other savings in legislative and judicial agencies totaling $20 million. There was an additional savings of $85 million resulting from unspent funds and a number of earmarks were eliminated. Some earmarks were maintained or adopted, but only those with a “statewide focus”. School funding was increased by $154m in FY18 and $117m in FY19—535 school districts will see a foundation funding increase as a result.

There are no new tax increases proposed and tax cuts from prior budgets will be sustained. The Senate added language from SB 5 (132nd) that would increase the college savings July/August 2017

7

tax deduction and the tax exemption for ABLE accounts.

The Senate also incorporated the rural jobs act into HB 49; this provides tax incentives for economic development in agricultural and rural areas. The Senate extended the back to school sales tax for another year and kept in changes to CAUV. Process Continues through June The Ohio Senate is making final changes to the budget bill before it votes it out on June 21. HB 49 will then go to a conference committee comprised of House and Senate members. Ultimately, the bill has to be signed by Governor Kasich by June 30. We will keep you posted via email should anything unexpected arise in the next few weeks. Until then, know that the ONLA and our green industry partners made a contribution to the betterment of our industry. Thank you! B Belinda Jones can be contacted at bjones@capitol-consulting.net

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THE MIDWEST GREEN INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE The Right Audience. The Right Time.

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BUSINESS BUZZ

BY MARTY GRUNDER

Recently I’ve been thinking a lot about mentoring and the make-or-break role it can play in a career. Most of us don’t come fully assembled; heck, most of us are never fully assembled. We have strengths and weaknesses, clarity and blind spots, skill in some areas and a complete lack in others. We need the perspective, insight, and experience that a good mentor can provide, along with a heaping dose of assurance—from someone we look up to—that we, too, can succeed. I would not be where I am today without my mentor.

This subject has been on my mind lately because, for the first time, all four of my kids are working. My oldest is a year out of college and embarking on a career in marketing.

My college-age daughters are busy with internships, while my son is spending a couple months with the customerfocused folks at Chick-Fil-A before heading into his junior year of high school.

Like all parents, I hope my children find careers that fulfill and challenge them (and get them off my payroll!) and, like all parents, I’m happy to offer them advice, both solicited and not. But I also know that the best advice I can give them is to seek out good mentors in their fields and then to leave the advice to them.

HOW TO FIND A MENTOR I’ve been blessed to have a number of incredibly generous mentors throughout my career. In fact, I just got off the

10 The Buckeye

phone with the best mentor I know, Frank Mariani of Mariani Landscape in Chicago, who runs the largest privately held company of its kind in the U.S. Frank took me under his wing some 27 years ago when I was a college kid with a fledgling landscape company who showed up in his office one day asking for advice.

Now, not everyone is going to respond as generously as Frank has, but it never hurts to ask. Find a successful landscape professional or business person, call them up, and see if you can treat them to lunch in exchange for an hour of their time. Afterward, send them a handwritten note of thanks and, if you liked them, ask them to lunch again.

If that goes well—and you’ll know if it does—keep asking them to lunch. Sooner or later it will lead to dinner, maybe a round of golf, networking, and the regular and trusted insights of a seasoned professional that you can’t get anywhere else. I think you’ll be surprised at how willing and eager those who have succeeded, both within our industry and without, are to share their expertise. I’ve found all my mentors this way.

HOW TO MANAGE THE RELATIONSHIP As with nearly everything else in business and in life, the first and last rule of thumb is to show up. Show up early for meetings with your mentors. Send them your questions in advance and be armed with a notebook and ready to engage.

Show up by initiating regular communication with them.

onla.org

Show up by following their business closely, in the news and online. Show up remembering their birthdays and major milestones. Show up listening rather than talking.

What will you get in return? Well, from Frank alone I’ve received an entire education in how to run a business, from operational tactics like job scheduling to how to create a workplace that folks actually want to work at.

My selling style is a result of watching Frank’s. My management style is modeled on his; he taught me to listen to everyone on my team, no matter their rank and title.

We have a system for everything at Grunder Landscaping, but if you have an idea about how to make something better, we’re all ears. I learned that from Frank, too.

HOW TO PAY IT FORWARD When you’ve been as fortunate as I’ve been to have mentors like Frank, you can’t help but want to pay it forward by helping to bring others along in the industry. I try to personally know everyone on my staff and

onla.org

take a real interest in their development, and I expect all my team leaders to do the same.

I’ve also organized a regular event in which Frank and I head out to the headquarters of a landscaping company we think has a lot to teach. We invite landscape professionals to come learn and have some fun. We call it Frank & Marty’s Excellent Adventure, and our next one is in August at Jim McCutcheon’s HighGrove Partners.

Obviously, a two-day event can’t replace a years-long mentoring relationship, but I’m always been amazed by just how much learning does take place and the lasting connections that are made. The event isn’t free, but the results tend to pay for themselves.

So, if you don’t have a mentor, what are you waiting for?

As the saying goes, a year from now you’ll wish you started today. B - Marty Grunder, Grunder Landscaping Co. marty.grunder@grunderlandscaping.com

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Nursery Field Day Reflections: Fifty Years!

By Mark Gilson

Since its inception in 1928, the nursery association of Lake County has featured major industry events to promote local operations, new plant introductions, and technological innovations. In the organization’s first year, the American Nurseryman’s Association traveled by train and by car from their annual convention in Cleveland to the heart of Lake County. Tours and events were coordinated by local nursery icons including E. George, Storrs & Harrison Nursery, T.B. West, West Nursery, W.B Cole, Cole Nursery, Arthur Champion, Champion Nursery, JJ Grulemans, Wayside Gardens, and others.

Over the next forty years, industry icons utilized the Lake County Nurseryman’s Association (renamed Nursery Growers of Lake County Ohio in 1998) as a lively forum to address challenges and opportunities. Landscapers, architects, students, educators and other nursery professionals were received each year for tours and discussions. LCNA minutes from June, 1958, describe one such tour.

It began at the Charles Irish Estate in North Perry Village, traveled to Champion Nursery for a demonstration on nematode control, Lake Erie College for a recognition of locally donated plants, Horton’s Nursery at County Line Road for presentations on drainage, irrigation and a new tree planting machine, then back to the Irish Estate for dinner and an evening program. Soon after, the Association began hosting allied groups for Oyster Dinners each fall.

The first summer Field Day was hosted in 1967 by Champion’s Nursery in Perry. Their field on Rt. 20 near onla.org

Middle Ridge Road (Champions Block 14), under the supervision of Donnie Crawford, was used to demonstrate herbicide sprayer techniques.

Fred Buscher, OSU Area Extension Specialist, with assistance from Bill Cartee, local OSU Extension Agent, organized this and subsequent events.

The 1968 Field Day, again at Champion Nursery, was billed as ‘The 2nd Field Demonstration and Exhibit of Tools, Equipment and Supplies’. An entourage of OSU Professors including Ken Reisch flew up for the 1969 event. In 1970, the event featured the “West Side” nurseries at Lakewood Nursery, later purchased by Hortons.

"Join us this year in a commemoration of our colorful past, a commencement of our constructive offerings for the future, and an enjoyable summer celebration of 50 years of Field Day!" An early Field Day in Mentor featured the operation of Paul B Bosely, Bosely Nursery, and Richard Bosley, Bosley Plant Systems. Buscher was often blamed for scheduling these events on the hottest and muggiest day of the summer, which increased popularity of the beer truck, managed by local chemist and nurseryman Carl Gullo.

(Carl used his expertise as a chemist to mix his own rooting hormone of K-IBA favored by rhododendron growers of the time).

While supporting these annual OSU Extension events in Lake County, LCNA hosted their own major events

in June and September each year, plus regular meetings and additional tours throughout the remainder of the year. This was a very proactive group. Charlie Brotzman, Brotzman’s Nursery, organized a long running, nursery-sponsored horseshoe contest at the Lake County Fair.

These events would not have taken place without the dedicated and usually uncompensated efforts of association secretaries Marie Brandstetter, Ken Fischer, Carol Lyons and others.

In 1969, the summer Field Day corresponded with the Mid-West Nurserymen’s Summer Meeting. By 1973 the Field Day at Champion’s Nursery attracted 450 visitors with 160 staying for the evening barbecue. Other Field Day hosts during the 1970s included Roemers, Klyns and Warners.

Attendees continue to remark on the popularity of pig roasts often coordinated by Latino workers. An event at Bill Burr’s MacKenzie Nursery Supply, a local association stalwart for many years, featured their new warehouse on Shepard Road.

There was a late-1980s Field Day at Warner’s Nursery on Pleasant Valley Road, after which visitors ran into Bernie Kosar, Al “Bubba” Baker and other Cleveland Browns following their practice at nearby Lakeland Community College. Mario Cekada attributes his booth at a Ridge Manor Nursery event for getting his new business off and running. Years later, Mario and Rusty Oak Nursery hosted a successful “West Side” Field Day that included a fishing contest, lunchtime NGLCO Annual Meeting and a live-fire skeet shooting contest.

July/August 2017

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OSU Extension continued to coordinate the summer Field Day until 1996, when it was turned over to the local association. A special LCNA/NGLCO field day committee operated the event under the direction of Jay Daley, Sunleaf Nursery, from 1996 to 2001 and Maria Zampini, Lake County Nursery, from 2002 to 2006. Maria’s final year culminated with a popular event at LCN with over 1,200 attendees. Local access for this event remained constricted due to the “great flood of 2006” two weeks before. Other hosts included Cottage Gardens, The Holden Arboretum, Willowbend Nursery, Ridge Manor, Losely’s, Sunleaf Nursery and others. A well-attended event hosted by Willoway Nursery featured Rocky Blier, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back.

Subsequent events were directed by Carla Lee, Sunleaf Nursery, Mark Gilson, Gilson Gardens, and the NGLCO Board. NGLCO Executive Secretaries and Directors also played a huge role, including Elaine Swanson, Karen Hinton and, most recently, Annette Howard! Hosts during this time included North Coast Nursery, Lake Metroparks FarmPark, The Holden Arboretum, Stanton Park in Madison Township, and Debonne Vineyards.

Along with trade shows nationwide, Field Day attendance has diminished in recent years. Some attribute this to the emphasis on social media, internet communication and real-time-sales in the new economy. Others, (rightly so!), insist upon the continued importance of face-to-face contact that we enjoy at tradeshows and field days.

Whatever the reason, and however we have evolved in our industry, people enjoy our summer Field Day! Exhibitors and technical representatives and growers enjoy a day each year devoted to themselves and their customers. Our County Commissioners and other political advocates enjoy a day when they can reach so many businesses. Our employees enjoy a day when they can engage others and have a good time. Despite beer trucks, skeet shooting, heavy equipment demonstrations and oppressive heat, the Field Day survives without notable casualties.

Any major event these days is a heavy stone to lift. So, we ask our partners and allied organizations, our local wineries, and equipment providers to help us provide a day and an evening for deals and conversations and making merry!

Let’s ask our members and our employees, our allied organizations and our educators, our political advocates, and our master tradesmen and gardeners to join us this year in a commemoration of our colorful past, a commencement of our constructive offerings for the future, and an enjoyable summer celebration of Fifty Years of Field Day! B - Mark Gilson, Gilson Gardens, Inc. mark@gilsongardens.biz 14 The Buckeye

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DIAGNOSTIC

WALKABOUTS

2017 SCHEDULE

ABOUT THE SERIES

Rockefeller Park Greenhouse Cleveland, OH July 6, 7:30–9:30am

BGSU Firelands Huron, OH September 7, 7:30–9:30am

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Akron, OH August 3, 7:30–9:30am

Sunset Memorial Park North Olmsted, OH September 21, 7:30–9:30am

Tim Malinich, Horticulture Educator with Ohio State University Extension, and other horticulturalists lead in-depth discussions of the art and science of scouting, diagnostics and control of landscape pests.

Presented each spring and summer, the Diagnostic Walkabout series features six, early morning walking tours at locations throughout the state. Discussions are tailored to the audience, weather and time of year, and characteristics of the location—no two walkabouts are ever the same.

Toledo Botanical Garden Toledo, OH August 17, 7:30–9:30am

CREDITS AVAILABLE 1 CEU

.5 (Core), 1 (6A), .5 (8)

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2 CEU

2 CEU

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This interactive, hands-on, in-the-moment experience provides a unique alternative to traditional classes or passive reading. Attendees are invited to partake in in-depth discussions, ask questions, and take pictures for future reference. It’s an informal and comfortable learning experience.

HOW TO REGISTER Fee is $45.00 for ONLA members and $65 for non-members Registration deadline is one week before the event. Register online at www.onla.org/walkabouts or call 614.899.1195

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WHY TREES MATTER A China Connection: Crabapples

By Jim Chatfield, Ohio State University Extension

In April of this year, thanks to the invite of the Beijing Botanical Gardens and the sponsorship of the Beijing Garden and Landscape Association, I headed off to China. It all started with one of the more pleasant e-mails I have received in recent memory, from my friend and colleague Dr. Ling Guo. It read: “Jim, would you please come to Beijing for Crabapple Conference in April 14–19 for one hour talk. All expenses paid.”

Hmm, let’s see. Yes! Fortunately, for my talkative nature it turned out to be a bit more than that one hour talk, not including the translations, but what a deal.

Ling and I have known each other for years, since she first came to the U.S. to study crabapples as part of her PhD project on the genetics of Malus, the genus for crabapples (small apples under two inches in diameter) and apples.

Apples, by the way, are native to the current Kazakhstan area in central Asia and much of the early genetic development probably occurred in China. The first Malus? Probably closest to Malus baccata—a crabapple! Apples have made their way eastward and westward in many ways over the millions of years, from conjoined continents, land bridges, and in recent millennia and centuries via trade routes to the Middle East and Europe, and of course more recently under the auspices of such seedsmen as Johnny Appleseed.

Ling has visited the plots of the International Ornamental Crabapple Society (IOCS) and OSU’s plot at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, Secrest Arboretum. This plot is where we study disease resistance and ornamental features of crabapple, and a good place for Ling to see a range of crabapples planted in the U.S. Ling is also the current and improved registrar for ornamental apples for the International Cultivar Registration Authority, replacing me (with my recommendation!), and has just published a new checklist of all the different types of Top to bottom: Prairifire crabapple in China, Scarlet Brandywine crabapple, Ling Guo and Crabapple Garden in Beijing

Jim Chatfield Ohio State University Extension crabapples in the world. Crabapples are cherished by landscape architects and designers worldwide for their range of features. They vary in flower color, fruit color, and for their variability of tree shape, from weeping and spreading types to rounded and columnar forms. Crabapples are especially revered in China, where they anchor locations such as the Summer Palace outside Beijing, where in combination with peonies they symbolize honor, health, and distinction.

Off I flew in April for the 18 in-air hours via San Francisco to the sprawling Beijing Airport. Ah, an exit row on the flight, but next to a central restroom—Grand Central Station of the Sky. But I digress. In the highway system around Beijing the smog is heavy, but the first horticultural wonder I noted was the planting of rows and rows of trees all along the freeway, from ornamental peaches to a yellow-leaved version of

the scholar tree (Sophora), from purple-leaved sand cherries (introduced to China by Ling) to fast-growing poplars.

Every inch of available land was a nursery.

To the main attraction: the most-visited botanic garden in the world. Groggy or not—I had to see Beijing Botanical Gardens’ Crabapple Garden. Thousands of people were enjoying the tulips, fragrant lilacs, the many other flowering trees, and the sprawling grounds of everything from dawn redwoods to tiny yellow-flowered maples. Then, we arrive to where in the last decade, Ling has added many new American cultivars of crabapples to complement older species.

A number of these crabapples, including the very fragrant and showy double-flowered pink Brandywine™, the diminutive Cinderella™, the spreading weeper Molten

Top: Tulip display at Beijing Botanic Garden. Bottom from left: Golden-leaved sophora, Brandywine Crabapple, Great Wall and Acer mono

Crabapples at Secrest Arboretum, photo by Ken Chamberlain, OARDC

Lava™, the little foliage ball of the top-grafted Lollipop™, and the large-flowered Madonna™, are introductions from Jim Zampini, the beloved Lake County Ohio plantsman. Alas, in China we learned to our sadness that Jim passed away three days before the conference at the age of 85. We had a moment of silence for Jim Zampini—a good friend. Jim’s crabapples live on throughout the world.

The conference included visits to the Great Wall at Badaling, with sweeping views of those yellow-flowered maples (Acer mono), lilacs, and all of us tiny human figures arrayed throughout the winding stone paths, and the Summer Palace with its iconic crabapples.

There were long walks through the crabapples, Ling introducing and then translating my comments (what a challenge), and formal presentations from scientists looking at everything from anthocyanin pigments in crabapple flowers to electron micrographs of the male stamens of ‘Royalty’ crabapple, to my comments on crabapples and crabapple diseases in the U.S.

Much crabapple collaboration with China and the U.S. is to come. One of the fruits of this Chinese visit is that it has reenergized me, Erik Draper of OSU, and Ling and the Beijing Botanical Gardens to get the IOCS running at a fuller capacity.

This includes eventually developing joint blogs and websites in the U.S. and China. Nothing like a good challenge.

End note: Stay tuned for more from my visit to China in a future Buckeye, from sliding cars along the Great Wall to Chinese buckeyes, from ornamental peaches to eating golden rain tree shoots in vinaigrette. And Ziziphus jujube—all my life I’ve been looking for juice such as this! Jujube juice jubilation.B

- Jim Chatfield, chatfield.1@osu.edu

One of the key things I always relearn is what Kenny Cochran of Secrest Arboretum taught me: right plant, right place. ‘Royalty’, ‘Radiant’, and ‘Van Esseltine’ are beautiful crabapples that thrive in Beijing and in many locations in China. However, we cannot sustainably enjoy these crabapples in Ohio because of our wetter springs. Here, apple scab and fireblight make their diseased presence known. This is one of the reasons our International Ornamental Crabapple Society developed plots around the country to test crabapples in different climates, making for better planting and sales planning for nursery producers, and a nursery crop worth tens of millions of dollars annually for Ohio growers.

18 The Buckeye

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July/August 2017 

19

RETAIL ROUNDTABLE

By Ron Wilson, Natorp's Nursery Outlet

CUSTOMER SERVICE

20  The Buckeye

onla.org

Q.

Assuming that you would include “excellent customer service”, what top five things do you do, or are known for, that separate your retail location from all the others? Briefly tell us what you do that makes your customer service above and beyond.

TIM CLARK, H.J. BENKEN FLORIST & GREENHOUSE 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Quality plant material Unique and unusual plant selection Large houseplant offerings Clean and easily navigable facility Excellent staff

As far as customer service goes, we try to walk each customer out to their car to help load and return the cart. We have a number of horticulturalists on staff and available at all times.We are attentive to customers’ special needs such as mothers with children and elderly guests.

NOELLE CLARK AKIN, PETITTI GARDEN CENTERS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

98% of our plant material is locally grown Friendly & knowledgeable associates Superior plant selection & quality Unique home & garden merchandise Community involvement/outreach

Three major things we do that makes our customer service the best: 1. Onboarding is an extensive two-hour training focusing on customer service skills & basic plant knowledge required for all new hires, followed by mentoring in the stores. 2. Daily service/skills training via computer module keeps everyone in the loop. 3. Weekly & monthly service tips & education pieces including media segments.

ANDREW BARTRAM, OAKLAND NURSERY – NEW ALBANY 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Exceptional plant variety Huge quantities of stock Superior customer service Fall festival Plant knowledge

Our customer service is our driving force. With every customer, our intent is to educate and provide them with a firm grasp of what they are purchasing and how to care for it. What sets us apart is our continued support past the time of purchase. We encourage our customers to return to the store or give us a call if they feel they are having problems with their plants. Once here, we can diagnose the problem and keep the customer on the right path. With this support, customers are continually successful in their gardening and this breeds success and trust in our store.

Going the extra mile will always reap rewards.

TONY SCIAMBI, BUCKEYE RESOURCES Service has to be the first thing on anyone’s list. A company in any business can’t ever be satisfied with their customer service.

There are always ways to improve. Look at the businesses who did not adjust to the changing demands of their customers—now Amazon is taking all their business. The customer has changed and we must do the same. Quality should always be as good as you can deliver. Remember the old saying “I would rather justify my price than apologize for poor quality.” Price should be fair for both producer and buyer. After all, if you don’t make a profit, you soon will be out of business.

JODI DAWSON, OAKLAND NURSERY – COLUMBUS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Quality material Fantastic selection Ambience Certified Nursery Technicians Old fashioned customer service

Things we do to set our customer service apart from the rest include greeting everyone coming through the door, hiring upbeat, happy people, working very hard to find products / plants at the customer’s request, and escorting customers to what they are looking for. Our employees are honest with recommendations (not just here to sell, but to educate) and customers can count on good resource information in the future. We make our customers feel at home and we make their experience fun!

DARLENE COOPER, SHARON NURSERY 1.

2.

3.

4.

No customers carrying or lifting anything!

Consistency in resolving warranty issues Experienced landscape division Knowledgeable sales staff that takes pride in educating and elevating our customer 5. Sincere appreciation of our customers I think we meet the criterion on many of these. Cell phone use by younger (especially high school seasonal help) continues to be a perpetual and highly irritating and unprofessional image we struggle with. Consequences, people!

POINTS TO PONDER 1. If you did the same exercise for your retail location, how does it compare to the lists and customer service comments above?

Were you able to list at least one thing you do, that you’re pretty sure no one else does, that makes you different from the others?

2. If you asked your staff these questions (no fair sharing answers with other staff members), what would they say, and how does it compare to your list and comments?

3. If you asked your customers these questions, how would their lists compare to yours and the staff ’s? “Hey Retailers, Can we talk?” (PS…Watch for our Retailer’s session during MGIX 2018.

Come and share in the conversation just for retailers!) B - Ron Wilson, Natorp's Nursery Outlet ONLA Retail Committee, RWilson@natorp.com

SUMMER SAFETY REMINDER: Heat-Related Illnesses

Any worker exposed to hot and humid conditions is at risk for heat-related illnesses. Heat illness occurs when the body is not able to cool itself, and body temparatures can rise to dangerous levels.

KNOW THE SIGNS It’s important to know the signs of heat-related illness— acting quickly can prevent more serious medical conditions and may even save lives.

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include: confusion, fainting, seizures, very high body temperature and hot, dry skin or profuse sweating. Call 911 if a coworker shows signs of heat stroke.

Heat Exhaustion is also a serious illness. Symptoms include: headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst and heavy sweating. Heat fatigue, and heat rash are less serious, but they are still signs of too much heat exposure.

If a worker has symptoms of heat-related illness, move the person to a shaded area, loosen his/her clothing, give him/ her water a little at a time, and cool him/her down with ice packs or cool water while waiting for help to arrive.

PREVENTING HEAT ILLNESS: • • • • • •

Drink water every 15 minutes.

Rest in the shade Wear a hat and light-colored clothing Take it easy on your first days of work Learn the signs of heat illness and what to do in an emergency.

Look out for your fellow workers.

USE THE HEAT INDEX The heat index is a better tool for estimating the risk of heat-related illnesses. The higher the heat index, the hotter you will feel, since the heat index value takes into account both the air temperature and humidity. In high humidity, sweat will not evaporate and cool the skin as quickly.

Working in direct sunlight? Add 15 degrees to the heat index.

ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT MAY CONTRIBUTE TO HEAT ILLNESS: • • • • •

Low fluid consumption Direct sun exposure and no shade No breeze or wind Level of physical exertion Use of bulky protective clothing and equipment

Workers who have not built a tolerance to working in hot conditions may be at greater risk. This includes new employees and those returning to work after a week or more off.

For more information on heat-related illnesses, how to monitor and acclimatize workers, or how to prepare a heat illness prevention program, visit: OSHA.gov/heat This article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to replace medical advice.

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22 The Buckeye

onla.org

SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR MIDWEST GREEN INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE JANUARY 15–17, 2018 • COLUMBUS, OHIO

MGIX News: ONLA Welcomes KNLA to Midwest Green Industry Experience The Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association is dedicated to providing you with education, networking events, and the best opportunities that will help you and your company succeed.

The Midwest Green Industry Experience—MGIX—began in 2017 as a refreshed and redefined version of ONLA’s annual conference. Its mission: Welcome all who play a role in the green industry—in Ohio and beyond. The 2017 convention welcomed just short of 5,000 attendees for three days of education, networking events, and a tradeshow experience that featured more than 250 vendors.

Building on the momentum of the event’s successful inaugural year, the Kentucky Nursery and Landscape Association will welcome its members to MGIX on January 15–17, in lieu of holding their Spring Training and Showplace.

ONLA couldn’t be more excited about this partnership. ONLA and KNLA are working together to ensure that members of both associations receive an unmatched educational offering and networking experience. Both KNLA and ONLA members receive discounted pricing on MGIX registration and exhibit space.

MGIX 2018 Program Highlights New This Year: MGIX Family Programs Many MGIX attendees and exhibitors own or work for family businesses, so MGIX is inviting the whole famiy to experience Columbus with programming on Sunday and Monday (Martin Luther King Jr. Day).

Education: Sessions focused on family business, such as succession planning and wealth transfer.

MGIX After Dark Make plans to join this exclusive, off-site event for MGIX attendees and exhibitors on Tuesday evening. Hosted at the Secret Cellar, an event venue right across the street from the Convention Center. More details about this and other MGIX networking events can be found at mgix18.com

MGIX

Dining: Join colleagues, co-workers and family for Sunday Dinner and kick off your MGIX. Entertainment: See the Columbus Zoo on Monday on the new Feature Stage, and take part in other family-friendly activities.

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT WWW.MGIX18.COM

INDUSTRY NEWS: July is Smart Irrigation Month

Advancing its mission of “promoting efficient irrigation,” the Irrigation Association announced July 2017 will once again be celebrated as Smart Irrigation Month. In its 13th year, Smart Irrigation Month serves as the showcase month to promote the social, economic and environmental benefits of efficient irrigation technologies, products and services in landscape, turf and agriculture irrigation.

New in 2017 is Irrigation Technology Tuesday. Technology Tuesday will serve as the kickoff of Smart Irrigation Month.

IA members, along with companies and organizations celebrating Smart Irrigation Month, are encouraged to use this second Tuesday in July as the day to jointly celebrate all efficient irrigation has to offer.

“With July as a top water-using month throughout much of the United States, we are excited to join with our members and partnering organizations to celebrate July as Smart Irrigation Month,” IA CEO Deborah Hamlin, CAE, FASAE, said. “Kicking off with the new Technology Tuesday, I am excited to see all our industry has to offer to communicate the message of promoting efficient irrigation.”

The primary activities of the Irrigation Association during Smart Irrigation Month will consist of the following: •

Social media campaign — Please follow the IA on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn as messages regarding Smart Irrigation Month and efficient irrigation will be shared and participate in Smart Irrigation Month’s Thunderclap campaign. #smartirrigationmonth

•

Advocacy — The IA will release a comprehensive advocacy package for federal lawmakers focused on advancing policies promoting all types of efficient irrigation.

•

Public outreach — The IA will release draft letters to the editor and tools for the irrigation industry to engage with local press and the public.

•

Announcements — The IA will have several other surprise announcements throughout the month.

“We hope this Smart Irrigation Month will be the biggest and

24 The Buckeye

best ever,” IA Government and Public Affairs Director John Farner said. “With our committed members and partner organizations, the opportunities for Smart Irrigation Month are endless. Let the countdown to Technology Tuesday begin!”

For more information about Smart Irrigation Month, please visit www.smartirrigationmonth.org.

About the Irrigation Association The Irrigation Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation companies and professionals.

The IA is committed to promoting efficient irrigation and to long-term sustainability of water resources for future generations. IA works to improve industry proficiency, advocate sound water management and grow demand for water-efficient products and services. For more information, visit www.irrigation.org

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Ohio High School Landscape Olympics Inspiring and Educating Future Green Industry Professionals About OHLO The Ohio High School Landscape Olympics tests students’ skills through hands-on, competitive events designed by industry professionals.

OHLO broadens the high school education experience and introduces students to the many opportunities offered by a career in the green industry.

What educators are saying:

“Excellent competition. My students left excited about landscaping and motivated to prepare to come back even stronger next year.”

“ONLA did a fantastic job organizing and facilitating this first time event! We look forward to next year. THANK YOU!!”

Your Involvement Makes a Difference Retaining quality employees is a priority for any business, and the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association is dedicated to building a strong workforce for our industry.

Through the OHLO sponsorship program, businesses can have a direct impact when it matters—when young adults are exploring their career options. More so, your involvement guarantees that your business’ name and brand are top of mind with this future workforce.

In 2016, the event welcomed more than 150 students from 17 schools.

Excitement is already building for the second annual event. Your support will make OHLO 2017 bigger and better.

Be an OHLO Sponsor: Visit www.onla.org/ohlo for more information

OHLO 2017 Thursday, November 2 & Friday, November 3, 2017 OSU ATI Campus, Wooster, OH Thursday Night Kick-Off Party Students and sponsors enjoy pizza and games Competition briefings and introductions Career Exploration Fair Connecting companies and students Broadening perceptions of the industry and its career options 30+ companies participated in 2016 Fun Zone New for 2017!

Activities and education for students when they are not competing in Friday’s events Awards Ceremony Gold, Silver and Bronze medals for individuals Team trophies Competitive Events: Hardscape Installation • Compact Excavator Operation Landscape Maintenance • Landscape Plant Installation Irrigation • Truck and Trailer Operation • Sales Presentation​ Skid Steer Operation • Plant Identification Cost Estimation

Sponsorship connects you with the next generation of green industry professionals, builds brand awareness, and shows your company’s support of an important cause.

OHLO 2017 SPONSORSHIP DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 15, 2017 SPONSOR INFORMATION Company/Association Name: __________________________________________________________ (As you want it to appear in marketing materials) Contact Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Company Address: __________________________________________________________________________ Company City: ________________________

State: ______________

Zip: _________________________

Contact Name Phone: __________________________ Contact Name Email: __________________________ Sponsorship Opportunities (Visit ONLA.org/OHLO for more information)     

Gold ($5,000) Silver ($2,500) Bronze ($1,500) Opening Student Party ($7,500) (exclusive) Fun Zone ($1,500)

   

Breakfast Sponsor ($1,000) Lunch Sponsor ($1,000) Refreshment/Hospitality Area ($1,000) Monetary Donation Sponsor ($500)

TOTAL AMOUNT $_______________ PAYMENT METHOD Check Enclosed

Credit Card Number: _______________________ Exp. Date: _______ 3 Digit Code: _________

Please send completed form to: Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, 72 Dorchester Square, Westerville, OH 43081.

Email: roni@onla.org Fax: 614.899.9489

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

DRIVEWAYS

BY BOBBIE SCHWARTZ

Most driveways are boring and impermeable; they are composed of either asphalt or glaring white concrete. Could that be because a landscape designer has not been involved in the decision making?

Wouldn’t it be a perfect world if the color of the driveway related to the color of the house? I live in a cream stucco house that had a black asphalt driveway for years. They just didn’t relate to each other.

Asphalt is cheap but needs frequent repair. New layers of asphalt can only be laid so many times before the driveway starts getting too high. Our driveway was so high that water was flowing toward the house and rotting the supporting timbers. Then I faced a dilemma: jackhammer it out and start from scratch or change to a different material? I was actually happy when the city inspector cited our driveway.

Since the driveway needed to be ripped out, I opted for concrete. What, you ask? But don’t worry, no white concrete for me. I had to interview several contractors before finding one willing to tint the concrete to a pale cream. Now, both house and driveway look married to each other.

If a driveway is the standard bright white concrete, an expert concrete installer could tint or stain the driveway to a differonla.org

ent color. Although the driveway would have to be periodically resealed in order to retain the color, the color could be chosen to coordinate with the house.

On rustic sites, porous asphalt could be a good and attractive surface. Also known as chip and seal aggregate, it is a mix of asphalt and fines (very small stones). It looks either gray or russet, has a grainy appearance, and should last 15–20 years (unlike asphalt that only lasts 10–15 years). Since the appearance is still black, it would marry well with a white house that has black shutters.

With asphalt, there is no design element. With concrete, there is. Where are the expansion joints? Instead of being cut at uniform distances, why not alternate lengths? They are usually cut horizontally but why not diagonally?

With an existing concrete driveway, another possibility is taking out some of the concrete and inserting brick or pavers in patterned sections at regular intervals and at the edges to alleviate the unending sea of concrete.

Both brick and pavers can be laid in a wide variety of patterns. Financially, an important factor is the amount of time involved in laying the pattern and whether the pattern will July/August 2017

27

necessitate cutting the material. If a pattern would entail massive amounts of cutting, the labor involved will increase the price exponentially. However, combining two simple patterns, one vertical and one horizontal, would not.

Paver and concrete driveways should last 25–30 years; therefore, the higher initial cost could save the client money in the long run.

Brick driveways are not inexpensive but they are elegant.

On a design tour, I saw a Cleveland residence constructed of pale gray concrete with cream trim. The stone used to build posts and walls was a combination of those tones as well as a brick color. The color of the brick curvilinear driveway echoed the color in the other hardscape elements. It was a lovely marriage.

Is the client’s driveway wide enough for comfort? I have seen so many instances in which visitors get out of the car and then have to walk on the grass. Regardless of the material with which the driveway was constructed, it can be widened

28 The Buckeye

by cutting out some of the lawn and replacing it with cut stone, brick, or pavers in a pleasing pattern.

Last is the issue of permeability. Permeable driveways soak up storm water runoff and, therefore, lower sewer bills while helping the environment (many sewer districts determine the bill based on the percentage of impervious pavement on the property). Although some municipalities do not allow gravel driveways, they are extremely permeable but do need periodic augmentation. Communities like mine used to allow gravel driveways but the zoning code now outlaws them. How short-sighted! You might, however, be able to copy a driveway I saw in Dallas. It was composed of large concrete squares interspersed with gravel strips.

I hope you now have some new ideas about driveways that you can use in your designs. B - Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb, bobbie@ bgthumb.com. Photos provided by Bobbie Schwartz.

onla.org

Connecting with a Younger Generation A Survey of Cincinnati Horticulture Students Green industry business owners may benefit from understanding why students study horticulture and what is important to them in a career.

Challenges with finding skilled and knowledgeable labor are shared by many green industry business owners. Greenhouse Grower 2017 State of the Industry survey respondents ranked labor as one of the top three concerns regarding their businesses, just below production costs and the economy.

As a high school career technical instructor, I am required to assemble an Advisory Committee to help guide the horticulture program and locate, train and connect students with jobs in our industry. During one of the committee’s meetings, the issue of a changing workforce came up. Com-

mittee members shared stories of high turn-over, poor communication skills, and employees losing interest in work over time. Shifting employee expectations have significantly changed the workplace.

I developed a survey where students ranked their top five green industry career interest areas. The survey also asked for a top three career attribute ranking of what they offer an employer, what they want in their career, why they chose to work with plants and how they best learn. The University of Cincinnati (UC), Cincinnati State Technical Community College (CSTC), and Diamond Oaks (DO) distributed a total of 128 surveys, with 99 deemed usable.

Results indicate the necessity to educate students about the various

career options in the green industry.

Employers can offer job shadowing opportunities, internships and special job-related projects. These opportunities coincide with student responses on how they prefer to learn—a strong preference for a hands-on/experiential mode of learning. Offering these programs can be challenging for businesses; on the other hand, they create real-world learning for students and a targeted recruiting opportunity to identify potential employees. Employers and educators need to identify measurable and mutually beneficial collaborations with the desired outcome of employment.

The date also indicates that students think the most important thing they offer an employer is a desire to learn new things. Instant access to information has changed the nature of education from a fact memorization model to one focused on synthesizing information while making connections between learning topics. This correlates with the career desire prompt where respondents cited an opportunity to learn new skills (ranked highest in pooled and individual campus data).

Green industry businesses are in a unique position to enrich employees’ work experiences by guiding them to extensive horticultural resources

onla.org

July/August 2017

29

and continuing education programs.

Incentive programs could encourage employees to share what they learned and how it applied to what they experience in the field.

Students reported that offering creative ideas was the second highest attribute they offer an employer.

Finding constructive ways for employees to share ideas can be very beneficial to a business. Utilizing technology at work can provide a creative outlet for employees. Recent college and high school graduates will often have advanced technology skills that can help increase efficiency and streamline operations. Some business owners avoid using technology due to the steep learning curve and the perceived lack of time. Utilize the skills of tech-savvy employees to help with scheduling work, creating and uploading web content, and managing a social media presence.

It was surprising that <5% of survey respondents viewed certifications/ specialized training/education as something they could offer an employer since they were all students studying horticulture. This indicates a lack of understanding of how classroom learning experiences connect to real-world applications. Students

30â&#x20AC;&#x192; The Buckeye

frequently express frustration with an exclusive PowerPoint presentation mode of teaching and request hands-on learning opportunities.

Educators need to find creative ways to help students develop problemsolving skills that will directly enhance green industry businesses.

This disparity is highlighted as several business owners have expressed that student employees do not possess expected skills when hired.

Students were asked to rank what

they wanted in a career. Pooled ranked data indicates that an opportunity to learn new things and diversity of work/tasks are most important. The nature of horticulture provides employees opportunities to expand their learning while offering a wide variety of skills to develop. Some survey respondents (>10%) cited that they wanted to own a business at some point in their career. Interestingly, competitive wages were ranked lowest by 1st

2nd

3rd

A desire to learn new things

38%

27%

22%

Creative Ideas

35%

19%

26%

A "get the job done" attitude

19%

26%

17%

Knowledge of Plants

4%

16%

15%

Certifications/specialized training/education

3%

11%

19%

In my career, I would like

1

2

3rd

An opportunity to learn new skills

36%

18%

23%

Diversity of work/tasks

23%

29%

20%

To own a business

16%

13%

22%

Flexibility in work schedule

14%

29%

23%

Competitive wages/benefits

10%

10%

13%

I am interested in working with plants

1st

2nd

I want to help the environment

30%

24%

st

nd

3rd onla.org 24%

UC and CSTC students but second highest by DO students. There seems to be a disconnect between students and people actually entering a green industry career and the importance of wages.

Students in the survey indicated that they wanted to work with plants because of a desire to help the environment (30%) and create beautiful landscapes (27%). UC students ranked creating beautiful landscapes and helping the environment as top reasons for considering a career in horticulture, perhaps due in part to the fact that the program is located in the Design, Art, Architecture and Planning school (DAAP). CSTC students listed helping the environment and physical work as their primary interest in working with plants. DO students ranked growing and caring for plants and creating beautiful landscapes as key reasons for wanting to work with plants.

Environmental awareness plays a key role in student desire to work in the green industry. A student recently contacted me regarding the lack of a composting and recycling program where he works. He had difficulty reconciling the inherent environmenonla.org

Flexibility in work schedule

14%

29%

23%

Competitive wages/benefits

10%

10%

13%

I am interested in working with plants

1st

2nd

3rd

I want to help the environment

30%

24%

24%

I want to create beautiful landscapes

27%

15%

12%

I like growing and caring for plants

18%

27%

23%

I like physical work and being outside

15%

22%

19%

I want to raise plants to grow food

10%

11%

20%

1st

2nd

3rd

Hands-on/experiential learning

81%

16%

6%

Traditional lecture/classroom

6%

10%

19%

Demonstrations

6%

41%

24%

Working with other people

4%

15%

23%

Research on my own

3%

17%

27%

tal value of producing plants contrasted with sending large amounts of plastic to the landfill. Many students see agriculture and horticulture as a practical way to provide healthy food and improve the environment. Green industry businesses can engage environmentally aware employees by using best management practices that minimize environmental impact and build sustainable landscapes.

A recent guest lecturer announced to students in my college class that horticulture is a dying industry. The comment was in context of challenges associated with finding, hiring, and keeping good employees. He described the consequence of not finding and keeping good employees as lost revenue. Many students do not have a clear understanding of the green industry and the type of work they will do. The seasonal nature of green industry business in Ohio has been a shock to some students when they are expected to work 50+ hour work weeks in May. Survey respondents ranked wages lowest in what they want in a career; however, college graduates I spoke to that have left the industry cite wages as the primary reason they changed careers.

Building a viable green industry workforce will require efforts like ONLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ohio High School Landscape Olympics, and Seed Your Future (seedyourfuture.org). A focused, collaborative effort between educators and business owners will help students learn about options in the green industry. Employers need to communicate technical and employability skill expectations to educators who can, in turn, deliver relevant content that matches the needs of businesses. Botanic gardens, parks and horticultural non-profit organizations offer unique handson learning opportunities and they are accustomed to working with volunteers. Training and building a viable workforce is vital to enhance profits in the green industry with the benefit of ensuring a robust food system and healthy environment. B James Hansel is an adjunct Associate Professor of Horticulture at the University of Cincinnati and teaches an urban agriculture/horticulture program at the Great Oaks District in Cincinnati.

For full survey data, contact James at HanselJ@greatoaks.com.

July/August 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192;

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45TH ANNUAL LANDSCAPE AWARDS

CALL FOR ENTRIES RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL INSTALLATIONS May include any or all of the following features: plantings, hardscapes, structures, water features and lighting.

Category 1: Residential Installation Under $15,000 Residential design/build projects valued at $15,000 or under may be entered, with 8–20 project photos and a written description. No plan is required.

Category 2: Residential Installation $15,001 to $50,000 Residential design/build projects valued $15,001 up to $50,000 may be entered, with 8–20 project photos and a written description. No plan is required.

Category 3: Residential Installation $50,001 & Over Residential design/build projects valued at $50,001 or greater may be entered, with 8–20 project photos and a written description. No plan is required.

Category 4: Commercial Installation Under $75,000 Commercial design/build projects valued at $75,000 and under may be entered, with 8–20 project photos and a written description. No plan is required.

Category 5: Commercial Installation Over $75,000 Commercial design/build projects valued over $75,000 may be entered, with 8–20 project photos and a written description. No plan is required.

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT & MAINTENANCE Category 6: Residential Landscape Management Category 7: Commercial Landscape Management Must include one project where the plantings under consideration have been cared for by the entrant for a period of 12 months or more. No plans are necessary in this category, however, images showing seasonal progression and maintenance details are highly recommended. 8–20 project photos with written descriptions required. Indicate whether your maintenance project includes lawn care on your written description.

32 The Buckeye

Category 8: Use of Seasonal Color, Container Gardens, or Perennial Gardens Seasonal color entries must include images depicting a progression of seasonal color on a single client’s project. Seasonal color or container garden entries could include window boxes, patio planters, street planters, etc. and may include the use of annuals, perennials, bulbs, etc.

Perennial garden entries must feature the predominant use of perennials and/or grasses, with 8–20 projects photos and a written description.

Plans or plant lists are not required.

Category 9: Student Project Students, individually or as a team, are encouraged to submit creative designs while being mindful of the practical considerations of site opportunities and constraints, program requirements, local government rules, and environmental issues. Students are not restricted by a design and construction budget.

Entrants should submit a landscape plan, maximum size 24”x36”, for a garden or residence. All plants and hardscape elements must be clearly labeled. The plan should be drawn to scale and include a graphic scale and north arrow. Additional supporting drawings such as elevations, details and perspective sketches may also be included. No student names or the name of any school should appear on the plan. Print or high resolution digital images of plans may be submitted.

All entrants must be ONLA student members. A list of all team members must be submitted with the entry form, along with copies of each team member’s student identification card.

Category 10: Theme Gardens or Retail Displays of Horticultural Products or Services Projects may include permanent or temporary installations or product/ merchandise displays, such as: displays at garden centers or in landscapes; landscape or garden center company headquarters; garden show, mall, trade show, or state/county fair displays; knot gardens; butterfly gardens; rock gardens; dwarf conifer gardens; etc. No plan is required. Submit 8–20 project photos and a written description that states the intended theme.

onla.org

PROGRAM RULES Eligibility Requirements The awards program is open to ONLA members and non-members.

Ohio-based ONLA members may submit projects completed within or outside of Ohio. ONLA members based outside of Ohio and all nonmember companies may only enter projects completed in Ohio.

Projects are eligible up to five years after installation. Entrants must have executed or designed the major portion of the submitted project (excluding management categories). Any project may be re-entered in the same category, unless that project received a previous ONLA Grand Award. Previous Grand projects may be re-entered in a different category.

Copyrights and Client Permission The entrant assumes the responsibility for copyrights, photographic fees and client permission for further use of images by ONLA for public relations purposes. ONLA is not responsible for the pictures selected or any edited copy used from the press package sent to the media. Entries become the property of the ONLA and may be used for publication or for any other purpose the association deems appropriate.

Digital Photography Each image should be named. Describe each image in your written description. Company name must not appear on any images. All photos must be submitted as HIGH RESOLUTION JPEG (.jpeg) files. A separate thumb drive of images must be submitted for each project. Photos cannot be edited in any way, except to blur/mask a logo or company identifier or to correct color brightness/contrast/balance. Entrants can submit up to 20 photos, in the order that the judges will view them. At least three of the photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION and HIGH QUALITY.

for purchase.Winning projects are featured in a designated “Landscape Awards Program” display area at MGIX. ONLA publishes information on winning projects on its website, onla.org and social media channels, and submits projects to regional media outlets.

Judging & Awards Two types of awards may be granted in each category, when warranted.

All awards are granted based on a 100-point system. Points are awarded by a panel of judges for each entry in a category. Awards may not be granted in a category if no entry is awarded an appropriate score.

All entries scoring a minimum of 70 points receive Merit Awards. One Grand Award will be granted in each category to the project that has the highest score above 85 points. A single Judges’ Choice: Project of the Year Award is granted to one Merit or Grand Award-winning entry at the discretion of the judges.

A jury of distinguished professionals in the fields of landscape architecture, education and horticulture evaluate entries. The judges determine the quality of materials (both plant and construction), design, completeness of installation, workmanship, and horticultural correctness in the landscape installation using only the images and descriptions submitted with each entry.

Judges view the project images in sequence as directed by the entrant.

Read the Judges’ Criteria Forms (available from the ONLA office) for details on a specific category. All entrants receive copies of judges’ critiques. Each project is judged individually against the industry standard, not against other submitted projects.

THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR’S SPONSORS

Entry Fee Each entry must be accompanied by a $75.00 fee (non-members, $150.00). Student entries are free.

R E S O U R C E S

I N C .

Recognition Winning recipients will be honored and recognized in conjunction with MGIX in Columbus, OH on Sunday, January 14, 2018. A complimentary commemorative plaque is provided; additional plaques are available

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TO ENTER Online Entry Form: www.onla.org/landscapeawards Email: Send completed application and photos to info@onla.org Mail: Complete this form and send a flash drive of photos to ONLA, 72 Dorchester Sq., Westerville, OH 43081 Deadline: Friday, September 22, 2017.

Use a separate entry form for each entry. This form must be completely filled out and accompanied by a written description of all photos for the submitted project to be judged.

Contact Name:___________________________________________________________________________ Company Name:_________________________________________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________City:_________________State:_____ Zip:_________ Phone: (

) _____________________ Email: _____________________________________________

Category Number:_________ Category Name:_________________________________________________ Project Name:_________________________________________________________________________ Landscape Architect Firm (if different from entrant): _____________________________________________ Total Amount for Contracted Work: $___________________

Year of Installation: _________________

The entrant assumes the responsibility for copyrights, photographic fees and client permission for further use of images by ONLA for public relations purposes. ONLA is not responsible for the pictures selected or any edited copy used from the press package sent to media. Entries become the property of ONLA and may be used for publication or for any other purpose the association deems appropriate. I verify that all information contained on this entry form is accurate. I further verify that no alterations of any kind have been made to the images I’ve submitted for this entry.

Signature: ___________________________________________

Number of Entries:­­­­­­­­­­­­­_____ x $75.00 (ONLA Members)

CHECKLIST

Number of Entries:_____ x $150.00 (Non-Members)

• • • • •

Number of Student Entries: ­­­­­­­­­­­­­_____ x FREE Total Enclosed: $_____________

Completed entry form Entry fee 8–20 high resolution photos in JPEG format No company names or logos appear in photos Written project description (use suggested template)

Check Enclosed. (Check #____________) ___ VISA

___ MasterCard

Card Number:_____________________________________ Exp. Date:________ 3-Digit Code:________ Signature:_______________________________________

DEADLINE: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2017 QUESTIONS? Email info@onla.org or call 614.899.1195

ONLA MEMBER SERVICE PROVIDERS ONLA members are entitled to the following benefits and services, designed to reduce company expenses while addressing the specific needs of green industry businesses.

ONLA strives to bring the most relevant and useful benefits and services to its members. For more information about ONLA member savings, visit www.onla.org or call 614.899.1195.

IT - Streamliner Solutions Group Streamliner Solutions Group, LLC is proud to offer ONLA members discounts on all of our services. These include VoIP, Backup and Data Recovery, Networking, Web Design and more. We're dedicated to putting you on track for tomorrow.

Lora Gray, lora.gray@ssghris.com

Credit Collection - Cash Flow Management (CFM) CFM’s collection system is geared to your individual operation, serving your specific business needs. With CFM, a trained collection specialist is assigned to bring in your pastdue accounts before they fade away as bad debts. Bill Bosch, bbosch@cfmcollect.com

Online Training - Greenius (formerly LS Training) Greenius is a suite of online training tools for landscape contractors. With over 30 videos for workers, in English and Spanish, and 8 videos for Crew Leaders/Managers, Greenius is for company owners who want to work smarter, not harder. Videos, exams, field checklists and tailgates can be viewed on all devices. Arden Urbano, arden@gogreenius.com

Credit & Debit Card Processing - Merchant Services Merchant Services will provide the ONLA membership with merchant accounts and credit and debit card processing.

Other services include online reporting, check guarantee service and working capitol funding. Scott Norris, scott. norris@merchantsvcs.com Energy Program - Growers Energy Solutions (GES) Manage your energy costs by joining ONLA members as one buying group. GES provides the opportunity to manage your energy needs and save on your natural gas & electric costs.

Our programs can offer pricing to members located in all Ohio gas and electric utilities that allow third party supply.

Joe Perlaky, perlaky@bex.net Fuel/Fleet Program - SuperFleet Save $.05 cents per gallon on all fuel purchases at Speedway, Marathon and Rich Oil locations with no minimum purchase required. This card can be used for shops and services or can be restricted to fuel use only. Also receive discounts on oil changes and car washes. John Kennedy, jmkennedy@ speedway.com Health/Life/Income Insurance - TAH Benefits ONLA partners with various insurance plans to offer a wide variety of benefit options for members including medical, vision, dental, life, and disability. Representatives will help tailor-make a program specifically to fit your needs, including advanced plan designs, management techniques, and improved benefits administration that can result in substantial cost savings and reduction of employee benefits liability exposure. Jay Hazelbaker, onla@tahins.com

onla.org

Property/Casualty Insurance - Best Hoovler McTeague Save on your property and casualty insurance with BHM’s group program designed for ONLA members to save at least 15% with the best coverage rates for your liability, fleet and equipment. Marc McTeague, mmcteague@bhmins.com Safety Services - American Safety & Health Management Consultants, Inc. American Safety & Health Management Consultants, Inc (ASH) fills the growing need for professional safety and health management services for companies of all sizes. ASH has the capabilities to provide Total Safety Management, from working on a single problem area to evaluating, developing and administering an entire comprehensive safety and health problem. Gary Hanson, ashmci@aol.com Soil & Plant Tissue Testing & Consultation - CLC LABS ONLA members receive various laboratory services at a 10% discount off list prices including testing of soil nutrients, soil texture, soilless media nutrients, plant tissue nutrients and irrigation water suitability testing, plus consulting services on all aspects of testing. Chuck Darrah, clclabs@aol.com Workers’ Compensation - CareWorksComp The ONLA Workers’ Compensation Group Rating Program has saved its members over $21.4 million in the last 11 years.

Through CareWorksComp, members are offered multiple savings levels, ranging from the BWC maximum to a lesser percentage, for companies with claims. Free, no obligation analysis of potential workers’ comp premium savings.

Cordell Walton, cordell.walton@careworkscomp.com

July/August 2017

35

SERVICE PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT: CareWorksComp Are you leaving money on the table?

The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association (ONLA) workers’ compensation partnership with CareWorksComp continues to generate significant savings and return on investment for participating members. ONLA members participating in our group savings plans for workers’ compensations are projected to benefit from nearly $4,000 on average in premium savings through the 2017 policy year. The ONLA program includes members across the spectrum of industries, including manufacturing, service, commercial and construction among others. More than 2 out of every 3 members participating in our traditional group rating program are saving the maximum 53% allowed by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).

In addition to our traditional group rating program, other ONLA members are enrolled in group retrospective rating.

Through this program, employers initially pay premium based on their full individual merit rates, but have the opportunity to receive refunds of a portion of that premium based on their ability to prevent workplace accidents and

manage claim costs. Participating members are estimated to save as much as much as 70% in the ONLA group retrospective rating program.

In addition to premium savings, CareWorksComp provides ONLA members comprehensive claims management, hearing representation, unemployment consultation, risk management and safety services. CareWorksComp is the largest third-party administrator in the state which provides resources to meet the unique needs of each member.

Put our team to work for you and find out how ONLA can make a difference for your company. For a no-cost, noobligation program analysis, simply call ONLA Program Manager Cordell Walton at (800) 837-3200, ext. 52398 or email him at cordell.walton@careworkscomp.com. You may also submit an online application at www.careworkscomp. com/groupratingapplication/onla.

See page 35 for details on ONLA's preferred service provider program, an exclusive member benefit.

Fire Light

®

Hydrangea True beauty.

With large, full flower clusters blooming early in the season and turning pomegranate-pink, Fire Light® will awe everyone well into the fall.

Its thick, sturdy stems hold up the beautiful flowers making them a standout in the landscape.

It’s just one of the over 270+ Proven Winners® shrub varieties available from Spring Meadow Nursery. We have 2¼”, 4” and Quick Turn™ liners available for 2017.

100c / 0m / 81y / 66k

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ONLA_July-Aug_SMN Firelight.indd 1

6/1/17 1:25 PM

PLANTS YOU MUST HAVE: Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura I recently visited Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum.

Of all the trees there, one that I especially love to show people is the magnificent Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura (Cercidiphyllum japonicum ‘Amazing Grace’).

This graceful weeping tree is one of the most underused plants in our region. The foliage is bluish-green, with 2– 4 inch long and wide leaves that turn yellow in the fall.

There is a unique, sweet, burnt sugar fragrance that hovers around the plant whenever leaves fall from the tree. Every sensory garden should have an Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura for this trait alone. Its leaves are thicker than the species and other cultivars of Katsura, making Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura a little tougher than the others.

The tree can reach 30–40 feet tall and wide. Fall color is much later than most other Katsura, with leaves turning in late October to early November in Cincinnati.

When Amazing Grace Katsura was first named, some thought that all weeping Katsura trees were the cultivar ‘Amazing Grace’. This is certainly not the case, so when looking for this tree be sure the nursery knows the parentage of the plants they are selling as ‘Amazing Grace’.

There is a more upright weeping Katsura named ‘Morioka Weeping’. This too is a fine weeping Katsura but, in my opinion, has nothing on ‘Amazing Grace’.

The original plant at Spring Grove was donated by Dick Ammon back in the late 70s. Dick received the plant from Theodore Klein, a Kentucky nurseryman from Crestwood, Kentucky. Theodore Klein was the one responsible for propagating and distributing several of the large Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura trees we see today.

There are several plants of ‘Amazing Grace’ in the Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Louisville regions.

Yew Dell Gardens (the former home of the late Theodore Klein), Cave Hill Cemetery, and Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum have specimens of the original plants from the late Theodore Klein. Each of these specimens are over 25’ tall and 35’ wide after 35+ years in the ground.

Make a point of visiting one of the beautiful specimens of Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura trees this fall. Visit a smaller but beautiful specimen at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens along the railroad tracks by the Reptile House. Do you know of any other specimens? Let me know where they are located.

Stephen Foltz, Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Stephen.Foltz@cincinnatizoo.org onla.org

July/August 2017

37

IN MEMORIAM Van Ross Wade, a lifelong Bellville area resident, loving husband, dad and grandpa, passed away Wednesday evening, April 26, 2017 in Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital following a brief illness. He enjoyed life for 86 years.

Van Ross Wade loved nature. He loved plants, gardening, trees, and the beauty of his family's thriving rural Bellville landscapes. More importantly Van was a man generous in spirit, who gave more than he received.

The son of Cye A. Wade and Martha B. (Ruckman) Claypool, Van was born July 11, 1930 in Bellville and graduated from Bellville High School in 1948. As a senior in high school, Van began courting fellow classmate and homecoming queen, Shirley Varner. On July 23, 1950 the two were married at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bellville.

Even as a teenager, Van worked with his family at Wade & Gatton Nurseries. In 1950, Van began operating Wade Christmas Tree Farms. In 1962 after the passing of his father Cye, Van and Shirley took over operations of Wade & Gatton Nurseries. The nursery was his life, and Van grew the nursery beyond perennials, conifers, shade and ornamental trees, to include 1,500 varieties of daylilies and 2,500 varieties of hostas. Van's collection and selection of hostas ranged from dwarf to giant types in all shapes and colors—including many of his own hybrid varieties.

He was a member of the American Hosta Society, Midland Hosta Society, and Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association.

He was a life member of the Richland Area Beekeepers, and chairman of the Bellville Shade Tree Commission. Van was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of nearly 67 years, Shirley Wade; children Steven (Margaret) Wade of Bellville, Tom (Robyn) Wade of Bellville, Brian (Cheryl) Wade of Bellville, and Linda Wade (Nat Chillemi) of Bellville; grandchildren Mark and James Wade, Adam and Ethan Wade, Daniel Wade, Rebecca Mdivanian, Julia Wade, Christina Ute, Jennifer Ute and Kelli Basinger; great grandchildren Mackenzie, Macy, Kennedi, Dylan, Andon, Ava, Julian, Mason Van Ross, Grant, Riley, Carter, Ejheni, Zahven, Xander, Max, Gracie, Brookelyn, two great grandchildren on the way; step great grandchildren Michaela and Chance Barnett; half sister Kim Wade. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his grandson Christopher Wade.

38 The Buckeye

Claude M. "Doc" Brown passed away on June 6, 2017, hours before his 81st birthday, and after a long battle with dementia—his family at his side.

He was born on June 7, 1936 at home in Perry to Claude S. and Edna M. (Cross) Brown.

A lifelong Perry resident, Doc graduated from Perry High School in 1955. A four-sport letterman, he earned a spot in the PHS Athletic Hall of Fame.

At the age of 12, Doc's work ethic was born as he rode his bike to his first job at Wayside Gardens in Perry, where he worked until graduation. His official career began at Diamond Shamrock, where he worked for 38 years as a lab technician, while simultaneously launching C.M. Brown and Sons Nursery, now known as C.M. Brown Nurseries, Inc. Doc and Janie purchased a fixer-upper and abandoned farm in 1965, and began growing vegetables in the hours after his day job. In 1970, the business shifted to nursery production.

Beginning in plant propagation for several local nurseries, the business has evolved into a successful regional grower.

Doc spent his years after retiring from Diamond (Eltech) working at his nursery, and putting a "doer" attitude into each hard days' work. He was a testament to the benefits of dedication and sacrifice. He was a man of action.

When Doc took off his work boots, he greatly enjoyed traveling with Janie, hunting with his boys, golfing with his friends, woodworking, and bicycling. Due to his perseverance and competitive spirit, he was successful throughout his life. He never hesitated to rush to the aid of a friend or family member in need.

Above all, he loved his family very much.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane "Janie" (Peterson), sons Kenneth (Ann) and Shane (Joan), grandchildren, Heather Leonbruno, Emmalee and Lukis Stevens, Alyssa, Kyle, Willow and Kendra Brown, great-grandchildren Quinn Koster and Callie Jane Kovatch, sisters June, Beverly, Barbara, Susan, and his loyal beagle, Cookie.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Renee M., his brothers William and Wesley, and his parents. onla.org

GET CERTIFIED IN 2017!

Become an Ohio Certified Nursery Technician WHY? • Improve your skills and increase your worth as an employee •

Gain recognition from the public, colleagues and competitors

•

Provide professional development for your employees

2017 TEST DATES July 20, August 8, August 10, August 17, September 21, October 19, November 16 SPECIALIZATIONS: Landscape The public, architects and contractors have come to rely on landscape contractors and installers for dependable landscape construction techniques and horticultural expertise. In order to provide sound scientific horticultural advice and proper installation, the landscape installer must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of areas including plant identification, plant usage, plant health, soils, turfgrass management, use of pesticides, construction techniques, design, sales and more.

Grower The grower is the base of the green industry. In order to have healthy plants to sell, the nursery employee must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects including plant identification, development and health; growing and harvesting techniques; plant nutrients; pest and disease elimination; plant maintenance and more.

Garden Center The retail garden center is the information center on which homeowners have come to rely for dependable horticultural expertise. In order to provide sound scientific horticultural advice to customers, garden center employees must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects including proper plant usage, plant health, soils, turfgrass management, landscape design, proper planting and maintenance of nursery stock and more.

Core Core is important to all aspects of the Green Industry. Plant ID, Professionalism, Safety & First Aid are examples of the Core chapters of which all nursery and landscape professionals should have knowledge.

A program of:

TRAINING MANUAL ORDER FORM NAME: COMPANY: ADDRESS:

CITY:

STATE:

PHONE #:

E-MAIL:

Check enclosed Check #:

Card Number: Exp. Date: Card Holder: Signature:

3-digit:

VISA

MasterCard

ZIP:

MEMBER RATES (Call for non-member pricing) * Landscape + Core ______ x $125.00 = $_______ Garden Center ______ x $75.00 = $_______ Grower ______ x $75.00 = $_______ All Manuals ______ x $250.00 = $_______ Replacement CD Rom ______ x $25.00 = $_______ Total = $_______ * Written Manual and Computer Based Training CD Rom for each

Return to: The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association • 72 Dorchester Square • Westerville, OH 43081-3350 Ph: 614.899.1195 • 800.825.5062 • F: 614.899.9489

onla.org

July/August 2017

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UPCOMING EVENTS View www.onla.org for more information. O designates qualifying OCNT recertification events.

O Diagnostic Walkabouts These educational walks take place throughout the state. Turn to page 15 for details.

July 6, August 3, August 17, September 7, September 21, 7:30–9:30 am OCNT Exams Exams take place at the ONLA office in Westerville unless otherwise noted. Register at onla.org July 20, August 8 (Field Day, Madison, OH), August 10 (Butler Cty. Ext. Office, Cincinnati, OH), August 17, September 21, October 19, November 16, 9am O NGLCO Nursery Tour August 7, Lake County, OH For more information, contact the Nursery Growers of Lake County at www.nglco.com

O NGLCO Summer Field Day August 8, Madison, Ohio For more information, contact the Nursery Growers of Lake County at www.nglco.com KNLA Bus Tour August 17, Cincinnati, OH For more information, visit knla.org ONLA Golf Outing September 22, Sunbury, OH See pages 5 & 6 for details and registration forms.

Ohio High School Landscape Olympics November 2 & 3, Wooster, OH See pages 25 & 26 for more information.

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40 The Buckeye

onla.org

OPEN POSITIONS Landscape Foreman Landscapes by Terra Dublin, OH Turf Applicator Abbruzzese Brothers Inc. Hilliard, OH Landscape Design Sales Support Rice's Landscapes Redefined Canton, Ohio

ADVERTISER INDEX Arborjet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 arborjet.com Buckeye Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 buckeyeresources.com Ernst Seeds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ernstseed.com Evergreen Seed Supply.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 evergreenseedsupply.com

Ads listed here were current as of press time. For more information, please contact the ONLA office at 614.899.1195 or visit onla.org/careers

Fifthroom.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

HIRING?

Fairview Evergreen Nurseries. . . . . . . . . 40

Post your open positions on onla.org. Listings are posted for 60 days online, and included in The Buckeye, ONLA's email newsletter, and social media posts. ONLA reserves the right to refuse ads. $50 ONLA members, $100 non-members

fifthroom.com fairviewevergreen.com Nursery Management Magazine. . . . . . 14 nurserymag.com Green Velvet Sod Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 greenvelvet.com Kennco Mfg, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 kenncomfg.com

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Medina Sod Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 medinasodfarms.com Millcreek Gardens LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 millcreekplants.com Premier Plant Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 premierplantsolutions.com Spring Meadow Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . 36

ONLA member companies are encouraged to submit industry-related news and upcoming events by emailing press releases and event information to alana@onla.org.

Submissions may appear in the News section of ONLA's website, in the Calendar of Events, and may be included in additional print or digital communications. Published at ONLA's discretion.

onla.org

colorchoiceplants.com Unilock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC unilock.com

Ad Rates & Info Contact Alana Settle alana@onla.org, 614.899.1195

July/August 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192;

41

The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association 72 Dorchester Square Westerville, OH 43081-3350 Address Service Requested

ONLA PUBLICATIONS EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE FROM ONLA • • • •

Education and training for employees Leave-behind item for clients Garden Center Retail Item Landscape Design/Build Sales Tool

Order online at www.onla.org/store or call 614.899.1195

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PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 1560 COLUMBUS OHIO